On Wednesday, former United States President Donald Trump took center stage during a prime-time Fox News town hall in Iowa, addressing concerns and explicitly stating that he has no intentions of becoming a dictator.
In response to his recent claim that the country would experience “bedlam” if his criminal prosecutions persisted, Trump clarified, “No, I am not going to be a dictator. I’m going to manage like we did.” He attributed the accusations of dictatorship to political tactics employed by his opponents, accusing them of attempting to gain votes by portraying him as such. Trump also pointed out that the media failed to emphasize the context of his initial statement, where he asserted he would only act as a dictator in matters related to energy policy and order.
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Dismissing the notion of being labeled a dictator, Trump characterized it as a political ploy and criticized the media for sensationalizing the situation. His town hall appearance followed the previous day’s “bedlam” remark, made in response to a court hearing that seemed inclined to reject his claim of presidential immunity.
During a Fox News town hall in Davenport, Iowa, the day before, Trump had responded to a question about potential abuse of power, stating, “Except for day one.” He explained that on the first day of his presidency, he would use executive powers to close the southern border with Mexico and expand oil drilling, clarifying that he would not continue in a dictatorial manner thereafter.
Despite facing impeachment twice in the Democratic-controlled House of Representatives, Trump was acquitted both times by Senate Republicans. As the front-runner in the 2024 US presidential elections, Trump holds a substantial lead in Iowa polls, with multiple surveys indicating his support at 50%, leading rivals by more than 30 points. Scheduled for trial on March 4 on charges related to conspiring to overturn the 2020 election, Trump continues to be a prominent figure in American politics.
